Vestibular Rehabilitation

Vestibular rehabilitation is an exercise-based program designed to help individuals with acute and chronic symptoms of vertigo, dizziness and/or disequilibrium resulting from damage to the vestibular (inner ear) system. Hertel & Brown Physical Therapy offers treatment for patients with the following conditions at all five of its locations.

Vertigo

Dizziness

Dysequilibrium

Labyrinthitis/neuronitis

BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo)

Meniere’s syndrome

Acoustic neuroma

Headaches caused by neck pain

Migraines

Post-concussive syndrome from sports-related and whiplash injuries

There are several types of dizziness, so the initial evaluation will focus on using tests to determine what kind of dizziness the patient is experiencing and if there are any signs or symptoms that require additional medical evaluation. Once the source of the problem is located, treatment will be based on what triggers the symptoms and the severity of those symptoms.

When the patient’s specific needs are determined, an individualized treatment plan is created with an emphasis on return to normal function. Treatment will consist of a series of progressive balance exercises that are designed to improve balance control and retrain the brain to process signals from the vestibular system.

Vestibular disorders and dizziness are also highly associated with balance and gait deficits, increasing fall risk and subsequent injury. Our highly trained therapists can identify individuals who are at risk for falls.

Individualized vestibular rehabilitation can help reduce symptoms of dizziness as well as improve balance impairments, enhancing quality of life and decreasing fall risk.